Cannon Beach, Oregon (USA)
Winter Pacific beachbreak with S/SW winds Dec–Mar. Cold water, fog, and tide constraints demand experience despite beginner-level skill requirements.
- 11.9kts
- Average wind
- 99
- Windy days / year
- 13:00–16:00
- Peak wind hours
- S
- Primary direction
Location
- Nearest airports
- Airport - Seattle / Tacoma International, WA
- Coordinates
- 45.8934, -123.9648
Monthly wind profile (peak window)
Jan
44%
rideable
15.4 kts
Feb
51%
rideable
16.2 kts
Mar
45%
rideable
16.4 kts
Apr
22%
rideable
15 kts
May
15%
rideable
13.1 kts
Jun
10%
rideable
15 kts
Jul
2%
rideable
12.1 kts
Aug
6%
rideable
13.8 kts
Sep
10%
rideable
14.5 kts
Oct
27%
rideable
15.7 kts
Nov
38%
rideable
17.9 kts
Dec
56%
rideable
17.2 kts
Best wind directions
- S
- SSW
- ESE
- SW
- WSW
Water conditions
- Ocean
- Flat Water
Best months
Hazards
- Strong rip currents and undertow common in Pacific Ocean conditions
- Rocky outcrops and submerged rocks near shore
- Cold water temperatures and hypothermia risk
- Fog and reduced visibility affecting wind patterns
What that means for you
- Walk gear out — don't drag downwind across rocks
- Strong current — walk back upwind, don't body-drag down
Amenities
- Parking areas and beach access near town center
- Local shops, restaurants, and accommodations in Cannon Beach
- Restrooms and freshwater showers at beach facilities
Local tips
Winter months (Dec-Mar) offer the best wind with 99 windy days annually, making this ideal for winter sessions. Check tide charts before heading out, as low tide provides the most usable beach space.
Launch & beach
Launch from the sandy beach during lower tide for optimal conditions. Southern and southwestern winds offer the most consistent conditions; ESE winds work but are less reliable.
Local etiquette
Share the beach respectfully with swimmers and surfers; stay aware of the popular tourist area. Keep a safe distance from other water users, especially during busy seasons.
What to wear
Wear a 4/3mm or 5/4mm winter wetsuit year-round due to cold Pacific water (45-50°F). Add boots, gloves, and a hood during winter months (Nov-Mar).
What to pack
Kite sizes
- 14–17 mlight wind, under 14 kn
- 11–14 mtypical sessions, 14–22 kn
Boards
- Twintip — universal, bring one
- Hydrofoil — light-wind spot, rideable from ~10 kn
What to wear (by climate)
- In the water
- 3/2 mm full wetsuit.
- On land
- Hoody and jacket; long pants in the evening.
Derived from the spot's latitude (temperate zone) and current season.
Right of way & manners
- 1Rider entering the water has right of way over riders coming in.
- 2Upwind rider gives way — keep your kite high when passing downwind riders low.
- 3Starboard tack (right hand forward) has priority when crossing.
- 4Overtaking rider keeps clear of the slower rider's line.
- 5Wave riding: the rider on the wave owns it — don't drop in.
Spot guide
Cannon Beach, Oregon
This is a winter spot. 99 windy days per year means you can actually plan around it instead of chasing forecasts. Most action stacks Dec–March.
Wind
S and SSW winds average 11.9 knots—consistent but modest. You'll get reliable flow during the season's core months, though January and November still produce sessions. ESE winds are rare. Launch at low tide; high tide crushes your beach width.
Water & Hazards
45–50°F water requires a 5/4 minimum; locals run 6/5. Cold doesn't just sap strength—it kills sessions fast. Rip currents and undertow are standard for this coast. Rocky outcrops scatter near shore; read the beach before you launch. Know where they are.
Who Should Go
Beginner skill level, but intermediate conditions. You need comfort in cold water and the ability to navigate fog that rolls in unannounced. If you've never been, find a local or hire coaching. Town amenities (parking, shops, rentals) are solid, but don't let convenience fool you into underestimating the place.